People hiking through lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Beaches, Parks & Gardens

Think “beach day,” Keys-style. Here, sandy stretches pop up in a few special spots, but most water access comes with a twist—limestone rocks, shady mangroves, and clear shallows that feel like your own natural swimming pool. Add in tropical gardens, local parks and playgrounds, and trails perfect for wandering, and you’ve got plenty of ways to play outside. From state parks to secret picnic spots, these listings prove you don’t need miles of sand to enjoy paradise—you just need a sunblock and a little curiosity.

Filters
Destination
Category
Key West

Bayview Park

Bayview Park in the center of Key West and has the following amenities: Basketball courts Five public tennis courts and a Pro Shop Open area for picnics and family gatherings Pavilion Pepe Hernandez softball field Playground equipment area Six restrooms

The Lower Keys

Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach

Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.

The Lower Keys

Big Pine Key Park

Big Pine Community Park is a vibrant, waterfront recreation hub on Big Pine Key, offering tennis, basketball, bocce, a skate park, playgrounds, a fitness trail, and a spacious community center.

Key West

The Key West Nature Preserve

The Key West Nature Preserve – a hidden coastal oasis of mangroves, native wildlife, and quiet beachfront tucked behind bustling Key West.

Marathon

Dolphin Research Center

Non-profit marine center offering dolphin, sea lion, and educational experiences in the Florida Keys.

Key West

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is Key West’s iconic waterfront plaza where nightly sunset celebrations come alive with street performers, food, and local artisans.

Key West

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters

Climb 88 steps for sweeping views, explore historic keeper’s family quarters, and learn about maritime heritage at the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum.

Key Largo

Harry Harris Park

Oceanfront park w/ boat ramp in Key Largo.

Key West

Fran Ford White-Crowned Pigeon Preserve

Conservation, birding, and community education in the Florida Keys.

Marathon

Marathon's Dog Park

Marathon’s Dog Park offers a safe, off-leash space with separate areas for large and small dogs to play, run, and socialize from dawn to dusk.

Key Largo

Kona Kai Resort, Gallery and Botanic Gardens

Kona Kai Resort offers adults-only boutique accommodations with a private beach, botanical gardens, and art gallery in Key Largo, Florida Keys.

The Lower Keys

Sammy Creek Landing

Peaceful shoreline park with a kayak launch and fishing opportunities, plus picnic areas and views.

Key West

Edward B. Knight Pier

Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!

The Lower Keys

Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park

Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park — multi-use recreation park with athletic courts and a fenced off-leash dog area on Big Pine Key.